Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context In biblical literature, "birth pains" are often used metaphorically to describe periods of intense suffering or tribulation that precede a significant event or transformation. This imagery is drawn from the natural process of childbirth, where labor pains signal the imminent arrival of new life. The metaphor is employed in both the Old and New Testaments to convey the idea of necessary suffering that leads to a greater purpose or fulfillment. Old Testament Usage The concept of birth pains is found in several Old Testament passages, often symbolizing the distress and anticipation of a coming change or judgment. In Isaiah 26:17-18 , the prophet uses the imagery of a woman in labor to describe Israel's struggle and longing for deliverance: "As a pregnant woman about to give birth writhes and cries out in her pain, so were we in Your presence, O LORD. We were with child; we writhed in pain, but we gave birth to wind. We have not brought salvation to the earth, nor have the inhabitants of the world been born." Similarly, in Jeremiah 4:31 , the anguish of birth pains is used to depict the impending doom and suffering of Jerusalem: "I hear a cry like a woman in labor, a groan like one bearing her first child—the cry of Daughter Zion gasping for breath, stretching out her hands: 'Woe is me, for my soul faints before the murderers!'" New Testament Usage In the New Testament, Jesus uses the metaphor of birth pains to describe the events leading up to the end times. In Matthew 24:8 , He speaks of wars, famines, and earthquakes as "the beginning of birth pains." This suggests that these tribulations are precursors to the ultimate redemption and the establishment of God's kingdom. The Apostle Paul also employs this imagery in Romans 8:22 , where he writes, "We know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until the present time." Here, Paul emphasizes the idea that the entire creation is in a state of anticipation, awaiting the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Theological Significance The metaphor of birth pains serves to remind believers of the transient nature of suffering in light of the promised joy and renewal. Just as labor pains culminate in the birth of a child, the trials and tribulations faced by God's people are seen as necessary precursors to the ultimate realization of God's promises. This perspective encourages perseverance and hope, reinforcing the belief that current sufferings are temporary and purposeful. Eschatological Implications In eschatological contexts, birth pains are often associated with the "end times" or the "last days." They are seen as signs that herald the return of Christ and the final establishment of God's kingdom. This understanding is rooted in the belief that just as birth pains intensify before the delivery, so too will the trials and tribulations increase before the culmination of history as foretold in Scripture. Practical Application For believers, the concept of birth pains can serve as a source of comfort and encouragement during times of trial. It reassures them that their suffering is not in vain but is part of a divine process leading to spiritual growth and ultimate redemption. This understanding calls for a response of faith, patience, and readiness, as believers are encouraged to remain steadfast in their hope and trust in God's sovereign plan. Topical Bible Verses Matthew 24:8All these are the beginning of sorrows. Topicalbible.org Isaiah 54:1 Genesis 3:16 Greek 5605. odino -- to have birth pangs, to travail ... birth pains. From odin; to experience the pains of parturition (literally or figuratively) -- travail in (birth). see GREEK odin. (odinousa) -- 2 Occurrences. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5605.htm - 7k 5604. odin -- a birth pang Library Suffering the Birth-Pains of a New Life. The Pains of the Birth Stand Over against Me. ... Whether Christ was Born Without his Mother Suffering? Blessed is He Above all in his Birth! 1 Cor. xii. 12 He Further Very Appositely Expounds the Meaning of the Term "Only ... "For if Ye Live after the Flesh, Ye Shall Die; but if Ye through ... Song 5. Praise for Birth and Education in a Christian Land. Commentaries and Standards on the Birth of Water and Spirit. As we Confess the Divine Birth of the virgin to be Without any ... Resources In Leviticus chapter 12, why is a woman unclean longer if she gives birth to a daughter than if she gives birth to a son? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about permanent forms of birth control such as a tubal ligation or vasectomy? | GotQuestions.org Why does God allow birth defects? | GotQuestions.org Birth: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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